Iris Automation develops advanced collision avoidance systems using computer vision technology for both crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Their solutions enhance airspace safety by providing real-time detection of nearby aircraft, enabling operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) while meeting regulatory standards.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Operating crewed and uncrewed aircraft safely requires reliable detection of nearby aircraft to avoid collisions. Current methods may lack comprehensive situational awareness, especially for operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) where visual observers are not present. Securing regulatory approval for BVLOS operations requires demonstrated risk mitigation through advanced detect-and-avoid (DAA) systems.
Solution
Iris Automation provides computer vision-based collision avoidance systems for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, enhancing airspace safety and enabling BVLOS operations. Their solutions use onboard and ground-based systems to detect both cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft, providing real-time situational awareness. The Casia product line includes both onboard DAA systems for individual aircraft and ground-based detect-and-alert systems for monitoring airspace. By integrating AI and computer vision, Iris Automation delivers the performance and reliability needed to meet regulatory requirements for advanced drone operations and increase the situational awareness of general aviation pilots.
Target Audience
The primary customers are commercial drone operators seeking BVLOS waivers, general aviation pilots, and urban air mobility (UAM) developers focused on safety and regulatory compliance.
Features
- **Casia Onboard DAA:** An onboard detect-and-avoid system for commercial drones, compatible with multirotor, fixed-wing, and VTOL airframes.
- **Casia Ground Detect-and-Alert:** A ground-based system that monitors airspace within a 360° field of regard, alerting to intruder aircraft.
- **AI-Based Vision Technology:** Employs advanced AI algorithms to detect and classify aircraft, distinguishing between cooperative and non-cooperative traffic.
- **Regulatory Approvals:** Casia systems have received exemptions and waiver approvals from the FAA and aviation authorities globally for BVLOS operations.
- **Airspace Visualization:** Integrates with platforms like Kongsberg Geospatial’s IRIS Terminal to display aircraft tracks and provide complete visibility of operational airspace.
- **Risk Mitigation:** Designed to exceed ASTM detect-and-avoid performance standards, demonstrating air risk mitigation for regulatory approval.